Ali continues to defy the odds and proves he's still the Greatest

MEDICAL opinion was unequivocal in its prognosis that Muhammad Ali would never remotely approach attaining the biblical landmark of three score years and ten yet, once again, arguably the greatest-ever sporting legend has proved the experts wrong.

MEDICAL opinion was unequivocal in its prognosis that Muhammad Ali would never remotely approach attaining the biblical landmark of three score years and ten yet, once again, arguably the greatest-ever sporting legend has proved the experts wrong.

He has defied logic and advice throughout his life to become the most recognisable man on the globe and an icon to billions of people of all ages, regardless of their race, colour, creed or religion.

I endorse threefold every eulogy, blandishment and panegyric word that has been written or spoken in celebration of his birthday in the hope he has plenty more anniversaries to come.

Without Ali and his charisma, unerring instinct for attention, infinite skill, speed, power and grace the noble art of boxing would be stumbling along with only tumbleweed for company, being played out in dusty halls and run-down gyms.

Personally, I thank him for teaching me that fleet-footed dancing can be manly and dangerous, that poetry can enhance and transport to the promised land a desired relationship and that the eyes can often be far more expressive than words.

Multitudes of people within the world of boxing must thank Ali for their prosperity and way of life although, conversely, he has also brought a mighty rod to bear on every other heavyweight’s shoulders as when compared to him they are seen as mere ungainly mortals